Budaun Women's Hospital faces gynaecologist shortage, OPD services hit

Budaun: A severe shortage of specialist doctors at the District Women’s Hospital in Budaun has disrupted routine healthcare services, with an AYUSH physician handling the outpatient department (OPD) amid the unavailability of several gynaecologists.

The hospital has four doctors with a Diploma in Gynaecology and Obstetrics (DGO) qualification. However, three of them are currently unavailable due to leave and training commitments, reports Amar Ujala.

The only available gynaecologist has taken on the responsibility of managing the operation theatre. She has been conducting caesarean sections and other gynaecological procedures for several consecutive days, adding to her workload.

Also Read:Over 80 percent specialist doctor posts vacant in Punjab CHCs: Report

Meanwhile, the hospital’s regular OPD services are being managed by an AYUSH physician, Dr Rabia. More than 200 patients reportedly visit the OPD every day, and the shortage of specialist doctors has affected consultations, particularly for patients requiring expert gynaecological evaluation.

Patients have also reported long waiting times for consultations. Some alleged they had to undergo ultrasound examinations at private centres after the service remained unavailable at the hospital for more than three months. They then had to return with reports for further medical consultation, increasing both financial burden and inconvenience.

Apart from the ultrasound facility, the hospital’s Complete Blood Count (CBC) machine has also been facing repeated breakdowns. The machine was repaired after developing a fault around 10 days ago but stopped functioning again before being restored.

The shortage of doctors has also affected the functioning of the OPD. The doctor, who is posted as the Emergency Medical Officer, reportedly stayed in the OPD for around half an hour on Tuesday and did not return for the rest of the OPD hours.

Dr Shobha Agrawal, Chief Medical Superintendent of the hospital, said the matter falls under the purview of the Chief Medical Officer. CMO Dr Vikas Sharma stated that the issue of doctor shortage would be reviewed and assured that steps would be taken to ensure patients do not face inconvenience.

Also Read:UP pushes for better healthcare amid doctor shortages